What Drives People To Hoard Animals?

Hoarding is a very serious psychological issue. A lot of us can't understand how people can live that way.

But we've seen a number of cases of animal hoarding in the past few weeks in spots all over the area, from South Philadelphia to Upper Darby.

Cats, dogs, other pets all involved in these cases.

Sometimes, as in last night's case, more exotic, unusual creatures are involved, like as alligator and iguanas.

A search warrant for a home on the 900 block of Shunk Street was issued after the homeowner, a man believed to be about 60 years old, was picked up by police out in front of the house- naked.

Inside this makeshift zoo were two dozen animals, more than half of which were already dead or died overnight.

The roster included everything from cat and dog, to turtles and a tarantula...

The surviving critters included a pair of white rats, a couple of turtles and two roosters.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Marla Deibler says hoarding is a very real disorder and that animal hoarding often follows other addictive collecting.

"They have become so socially isolated from hoarding other kinds of items or having interpersonal problems that they need that love- they need to feel that they can care for something. They need to feel unconditionally cared for by another thing or person."

Neighbors on Shunk Street said the smell, even outside this home- was overpowering.

So how could the hoarder not realize his behavior was abnormal- unhealthy- just plan wrong?

"We get used to smells- just like we get used to the smells of our own homes, even if they're kept very well," Deibler said.

"The smell can seem normal to them- or they can be embarrassed of it, but unable to control it so they don't invite people into their homes because they do have a sense that it's out of control. Or they cover up their windows or do other things to keep others out."

The interest in hoarding is such that two different cable TV reality shows now explore the disorder in some depth.

Dr. Deibler worries that some episodes may be exploiting hoarders for ratings, but believes the increased public awareness has led many to seek treatment for loved ones who are living this nightmarish existence.